Cuyahoga Heights tops Independence

The Cuyahoga Heights Redskins topped the Independence Blue Devils, 37-7, in the Cleveland Browns High School Game of the Week, presented by PNC Bank.

The Cuyahoga Heights Redskins defeated the Independence Blue Devils, 37-7, in the Week Nine Cleveland Browns High School Game of the Week, presented by PNC Bank.

While Mother Nature battered the field with a driving rain and steady wind, Cuyahoga Heights used its punishing defense and prolific offense to control the tempo of the game from the start to the finish.

The Redskins scored three touchdowns in the first quarter, one of which on a 43-yard touchdown reception by Game of the Week MVP Jack Alpert, and took a 20-0 lead into the second frame, where they continued to build onto their advantage.

Alpert accounted for three touchdowns in the game, including returning a blocked punt for a score.

Cuyahoga Heights scored 10 second-quarter points, first with a 24-yard field goal and then, a Jordan Martin touchdown pass.

The Redskins wasted little time adding onto their lead in the second half, as Martin found Alpert for a 65-yard touchdown pass eight seconds into the third quarter.

The Blue Devils tacked on a touchdown late in the third quarter, but the respective defenses held the opposition without a point in the fourth.

The Redskins improved to 8-1 on the year. They now have a chance to clinch the Chagrin Valley Conference-Metro Division against Richmond Heights next week and continue their march toward the postseason. Independence dropped to 5-4 with the loss.

The Redskins will receive $4,000 through the Game of the Week Program and Cuyahoga Heights coach Al Martin and Alpert will be honored during the Browns-Baltimore Ravens game on Nov. 4.

The Cleveland Browns High School Game of the Week Program is presented by PNC Bank, in association with Russell Athletic and The Ohio Army National Guard.